Guide catheter control flexible track

ABSTRACT

A robotic catheter system includes a base and a robotic mechanism having a longitudinal axis and being movable relative to the base along the longitudinal axis. A flexible track is releasably secured to the base and includes an outer surface having a longitudinal opening slit extending therethrough to an inner channel. A rigid guide has a non-linear portion fixed relative to the robotic mechanism. A portion of the flexible track moves along the non-linear portion of the rigid guide away from the longitudinal axis when the robotic mechanism moves along the longitudinal axis.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/029,115, filed on Apr. 13, 2016, entitled “GUIDE CATHETER CONTROL FLEXIBLE TRACK”, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,549,071 which is a National Stage Entry of PCT/US2014/060664, filed on Oct. 15, 2014, entitled “GUIDE CATHETER CONTROL FLEXIBLE TRACK” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/891,389, filed Oct. 15, 2013, entitled “GUIDE CATHETER CONTROL BENDABLE SUPPORT”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/952,872, filed Mar. 14, 2014, entitled “GUIDE CATHETER CONTROL BENDABLE SUPPORT”, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present application relates generally to the field of catheter systems for performing diagnostic and/or percutaneous coronary intervention procedures. The present application relates specifically to a guide catheter control in a robotic catheter system.

Vascular disease, and in particular cardiovascular disease, may be treated in a variety of ways. Surgery, such as cardiac bypass surgery, is one method for treating cardiovascular disease. However, under certain circumstances, vascular disease may be treated with a catheter based intervention procedure, such as angioplasty. Catheter based intervention procedures are generally considered less invasive than surgery.

During one type of intervention procedure, a guide catheter is inserted into a patient's femoral artery through an introducer and positioned proximate the coronary ostium of a patient's heart. A guide wire is inserted into the guide catheter typically through a hemostasis valve and maneuvered through the patient's arterial system until the guide wire reaches the site of the lesion. A working catheter is then moved along the guide wire until the working catheter such as a balloon and stent are positioned proximate the lesion to open a blockage to allow for an increased flow of blood proximate the lesion. In addition to cardiovascular disease, other diseases may be treated with catheterization procedures.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment a robotic catheter system includes a base and a robotic mechanism having a longitudinal axis and being movable relative to the base along the longitudinal axis. A flexible track is releasably secured to the base and includes an outer surface having a longitudinal opening slit extending therethrough to an inner channel. A rigid guide has a non-linear portion fixed relative to the robotic mechanism. A portion of the flexible track moves along the non-linear portion of the rigid guide away from the longitudinal axis when the robotic mechanism moves along the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment a method of supporting an elongated medical device includes translating a robotic mechanism along a longitudinal axis relative to a base. The robotic mechanism includes a rigid guide having a distal portion along the longitudinal axis and an offset portion offset from the longitudinal axis. The method further includes providing a flexible track having a slit extending into an interior region; placing the flexible track within the rigid guide; operatively fixing a portion of the flexible track to the base; and moving a portion of the flexible track between the offset portion and the distal portion as the robotic mechanism extends and retracts along the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment an apparatus includes a base and a robotic mechanism movable along a longitudinal axis relative to a base by a linear drive. The robotic mechanism includes a rigid guide having a distal portion along the longitudinal axis and an offset portion offset from the longitudinal axis. A flexible track has an interior region and includes a portion being operatively fixed to the base. The flexible track includes a portion within the rigid guide. An elongated medical device extends from the robotic mechanism and extends along the longitudinal axis. A portion of the flexible track moves between the offset portion and the distal portion of the rigid guide as the robotic mechanism extends and retracts along the longitudinal axis and extends about the elongated medical device proximate the juncture between the offset portion and the distal portion of the rigid guide as the robotic mechanism extends along the longitudinal axis.

In a further aspect of one embodiment the proximal end and the distal end of the flexible track remain in a fixed location as the robotic mechanism is moved along the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment a support system for the portion of a guide catheter extending between a patient into whom the guide catheter has been introduced and a robotic mechanism for incremental movement of the guide catheter includes a flexible track having an internal channel. The flexible track includes a slit extending longitudinally along the track, the slit removeably receives a portion of guide catheter therethrough. A rigid guide fixed relative to the robotic mechanism provides an arcurate path for the flexible track which path proceeds from the portion of the robotic mechanism to the longitudinal axis of the guide catheter that extends from the robotic mechanism connected to a position offset from the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment a support system for a guide catheter includes a flexible track having a longitudinal slit that receives a guide catheter into a cavity of the track while the guide catheter is in a straight orientation. A rigid guide guides the flexible track toward and away from a longitudinal axis of the guide catheter. The flexible track being coaxial with the guide catheter between an entry point of the guide catheter into the cavity of the flexible track and not being coaxial with the guide catheter for at least a portion of the flexible track between the entry point and a proximal end of the flexible support.

In one embodiment a system for manipulating a guide catheter that has been inserted into a human patient for the performance of a percutaneous procedure is also provided. It includes a robotic mechanism for advancing a guide wire and/or a working catheter into the proximal end of the guide catheter, a guide catheter affixed to the distal end of the robotic mechanism and a support system for supporting the portion of the guide catheter extending between the patient and the robotic mechanism. The support system includes a flexible track which carries a channel into which a portion of guide catheter may be releasably inserted, a rigid guide affixed to the robotic mechanism and provides a path for the flexible track toward and away from a longitudinal axis of the guide catheter as the distal end of the guide catheter is moved toward and away from a patient.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This application will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a robotic catheter system.

FIG. 2 is top isometric view of a front portion of the robotic catheter system of FIG. 1 with an exploded view of a guide catheter and Y-connector.

FIG. 3 is a side front view of the front portion of the robotic catheter system of FIG. 2 with the guide catheter positioned within a Y-connector support in a raised position.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the portion of the system of FIG. 2 with the Y-connector and support in a lowered position with the Y-connector support cover in the raised position.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the front portion of the robotic catheter system of FIG. 2 with the guide catheter in the engaged position.

FIG. 6A is an isometric view of the robotic catheter system with the sheath clip in an install position.

FIG. 6B is an isometric view of the robotic catheter system with the sheath clip in an engaged position.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the arcuate portion of the rigid guide and front of the robotic catheter system.

FIG. 8 is a close up of the sheath clip, flexible track and rigid support of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the sheath clip and distal end of the rigid guide.

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of the front portion of the robotic catheter system with the flexible track in an extended position.

FIG. 11 is cross-sectional view of the front portion of the robotic catheter system taken generally along line 11-11 of FIG. 5 showing an extension member protruding into a slit of the flexible track.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the front portion of the robotic catheter system taken generally along lines 12-12 of FIG. 6A with the sheath clip in an in-load position.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the front portion of the robotic catheter system taken generally along lines 13-13 of FIG. 6B with the sheath clip in the operational position.

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the robotic catheter system with the flexible track in the fully retracted position.

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the robotic catheter system with the flexible track in an extended position.

FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the robotic catheter system with the robotic drive in a first position.

FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the robotic catheter system with the robotic drive in a second extended position.

FIG. 18 is a rear isometric view of the robotic catheter system with a linear drive.

FIG. 19 is an exploded rear isometric view of the robotic catheter system with the cassette in a pre-assembly position relative to the robotic drive base.

FIG. 20 is a rear isometric view of the robotic catheter system with the cassette secured to the robotic drive base with the locking track clamp in the disengaged position.

FIG. 21 is a close up view of the locking track clamp taken generally along lines 21-21 of FIG. 20 .

FIG. 22 is a close-up isometric view of the locking track clamp in an engaged position.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the locking track clamp in an engaged position and unlocked.

FIG. 24 is an exploded view of a portion of the locking track clamp.

FIG. 25A is a cross-sectional view of the locking track clamp in an unlocked position.

FIG. 26A is a cross-sectional view of the locking track clamp in an unlocked position.

FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view of the locking track clamp in a locked position.

FIG. 26B is a cross-sectional view of the locking track clamp in the locked position.

FIG. 27 is a schematic view of the robotic catheter system with a remote control station.

FIG. 28 is illustration of robotic catheter system with the guide catheter engaged with a patient.

FIG. 29 is a view of a hemostasis valve control mechanism.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the hemostasis valve illustrating the opening and closing the back portion of the hemostasis valve.

FIG. 31 is an isometric view of a sheath clip.

FIG. 32 is an isometric view of the sheath clip of FIG. 31 with an introducer.

FIG. 33 is an isometric view of the sheath clip of FIG. 31 with an introducer connected to the sheath clip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1 a robotic catheter system 210 includes a robotic mechanism 212 robotically moving an elongated medical device. The robotic mechanism 212 is movable relative to a base 214. A flexible track 216 is movable along a rigid guide track 218 having a non-linear portion. Referring to FIG. 16 flexible track 216 includes a proximal end 253 and a distal end 254.

As described in more detail herein, flexible track 216 supports an elongated medical device such as a guide catheter so that the guide catheter can be advanced into the patient without buckling.

As used herein the direction distal is the direction toward the patient and the direction proximal is the direction away from the patient. The term up and upper refers to the general direction away from the direction of gravity and the term bottom, lower and down refers to the general direction of gravity. The term front refers to the side of the robotic mechanism that faces a user and away from the articulating arm. The term rear refers to the side of the robotic mechanism that is closest to the articulating arm. The term inwardly refers to the inner portion of a feature. The term outwardly refers to the outward portion of a feature.

Robotic mechanism 212 includes a robotic drive base 220 movable relative to base 214 and a cassette 222 that is operatively secured to robotic drive base 220. In one embodiment cassette 222 includes structure that defines support rigid guide 218. In one embodiment base 214 alone or in combination with cassette 222 defines rigid guide 218.

In one embodiment base 214 is secured to an articulating arm 224 that allows a user to position robotic mechanism 212 proximate a patient. In one embodiment base 214 is the distal portion of the articulating arm 224. Articulating arm 224 is secured to a patient bed by a rail clamp or a bed clamp 226. In this manner base 214 is secured to a patient bed. By manipulation of articulated arm 224 the base 214 is placed in a fixed location relative to a patient that lies upon the patient bed. The arms of articulated arm 224 can be fixed once the desired location of robotic mechanism 212 is set relative to the patient.

Referring to FIG. 2 an elongated medical device such as a guide catheter 228 is operatively secured to robotic mechanism 212 through cassette 222. Guide catheter 228 includes a proximal end 230, an opposing distal end 232, and an intermediate portion 234 extending between the proximal end 230 and distal end 232. In one embodiment proximal end 230 of guide catheter 228 is operatively secured to a Y-connector 233 and Y-connector engagement mechanism 236. In one embodiment Y-connector 233 is a hemostasis valve that is secured to cassette 222 by a Y-connector engagement mechanism 236 including a Y-connector base 238 that is part of cassette 222 and an enclosure member 244 including a lid 243 and a support member 245. Y-connector base 238 includes a guide catheter drive mechanism 240 located in the cassette 222 which in turn is operatively connected to robotic base 220. Guide catheter drive mechanism 240 includes a drive mechanism that operatively engages and rotates guide catheter 228 along its longitudinal axis correction about its longitudinal axis based on commands provided by a remote control center.

Referring to FIG. 3 , Y connector enclosure 244 pivots to a raised install position to provide easy installation of guide catheter 228 and Y-connector 233. Referring to FIG. 4 , the Y-connector enclosure 244 pivots along vector 242 from the raised position to an in-use operational lower position. In one embodiment guide catheter drive mechanism 240 interacts with a gear 241 on a rotating luer lock connector secured to proximal end 230 of guide catheter 228 to robotically rotate guide catheter 228 about its longitudinal axis. The operation of a Y-connector holder and drive mechanism 236 to robotically rotate guide catheter 228 about its longitudinal axis is described in published US Patent Application No. US 2014/0171863 A1 entitled Hemostasis Valve for Guide Catheter Control which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The robotic control of the Y-connector hemostasis valve 233 will be discussed in further detail below.

Referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 6A, Y connector holder 238 includes a cover 244 which pivots from an open position to a closed position. Y connector holder 238 is releasably engaged to a portion of cassette 222 by a release button 246. Movement of lever 246 allows Y connector holder 238 to be pivoted from the operational lower position to the raised position to load guide catheter 228 and Y-connector 233.

Referring to FIG. 5 the relationship between guide catheter 228, rigid guide 218, and flexible track 216 will be described. Guide catheter 228 maintains a linear position along its longitudinal axis 248 within cassette 222 and for at least a certain distance distal cassette 222. In one embodiment longitudinal axis 248 corresponds to the longitudinal axis of cassette 222.

During a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) guide catheter 228 is used to guide other elongated medical devices such as a guide wire and balloon stent catheter into a patient to conduct an exploratory diagnosis or to treat a stenosis within a patient's vasculature system. In one such procedure the distal end 232 of the guide catheter 228 is seated within the ostium of a patient's heart. Robotic mechanism 212 drives a guide wire and/or a working catheter such as a balloon stent catheter in and out of a patient. The guide wire and working catheter are driven in within the guide catheter 228 between the distal end of the robotic mechanism 212 and the patient. In one embodiment longitudinal axis 248 is the axis about which cassette 222 causes rotation of a guide wire and the axis along which cassette 222 drives the guide wire along its longitudinal axis and drives a working catheter such as a balloon stent catheter along its longitudinal axis. In one embodiment the robotic drive system is of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,887,549 entitled Catheter System and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Referring to FIGS. 5, 7 and 9 a collar 250 is formed at the distal end of rigid guide 218. Collar 250 includes a vertically extending opening 278 through which guide catheter 228 is loaded into flexible track 216.

The terminal end 254 of flexible track 216 is secured to a sheath clip 256 which is releasably connected to cassette 222. Flexible track 216 includes a collar 250 secured to a terminal distal end 252. Referring to FIG. 9 in one embodiment a sheath clip 256 includes a proximal end 258 including an attachment portion 260. The distal end 254 of flexible track 216 is secured to attachment portion 260. Sheath clip 256 includes a grasping portion 262 that allows a user to manipulate sheath clip 256 and flexible track 216. Intermediate the grip portion 262 and the flexible track attachment portion 260 is a collar engagement portion 264. Collar engagement portion 264 and includes a guiding locating member 266 configured to position sheath clip 256 within collar 250.

Referring to FIG. 7 rigid guide 218 includes a top member 268 and a bottom channel member 270. Top member 268 and bottom channel member 270 when secured together with a plurality of fasteners or other fastening mechanism forms a interior channel 272 through which flexible track 216 moves relative to rigid guide 218.

Referring to FIG. 8 flexible track 216 includes an opening 274 located adjacent to the terminal end 254 of flexible track 216 a predetermined distance toward proximal end of flexible track 216. When distal end 254 of flexible track 216 is positioned adjacent collar 250 opening 274 extends from collar 250 toward Y-connector holder a distance sufficient such that opening 274 extends from collar 250 to the area in which rigid guide 218 begins an arcuate path away from longitudinal axis 248. In one embodiment arcuate path forms an s-curve having at least one point of inflection along the arcuate path. As discussed below opening 274 provides a path for guide catheter 228 to be placed into the hollow cavity of flexible track directly from a position above longitudinal axis. In this manner guide catheter 228 may be placed within flexible track 216 proximate opening 274 while guide catheter 228 is linear. Stated another way in one embodiment guide catheter 228 is in a straight line when the guide catheter 228 is inserted through opening 274. In one embodiment opening 274 extends 90 degrees about the opening of the terminal end 254 of flexible track 216. Opening 274 tapers to a slit 286 that extends substantially the entire length of flexible track 216. In one embodiment slit 286 extends from opening 274 a distance sufficient to allow guide catheter 228 to enter and exit an interior portion of flexible track 21 throughout the entire intended operation of robotic catheter system. Opening 274 is defined by a pair of substantially parallel cut lines 288, 290 in the outer surface of flexible track 216. Opening 274 is further defined by a tapered region 294 with an arcuate line 296 extending from cut line 288 toward slit 286. In one embodiment flexible track 216 has sufficient rigidity to maintain slit 286 in the open position, that is the two portions of the outer surface of flexible track 216 that define slit 286 remain separated during movement of the flexible track 216 as described herein and do not collapse onto one another such that no opening is present. In one embodiment slit 286 collapses during certain portions of flexible track 216 as it moves through certain sections of rigid guide 218. In one embodiment slit 286 collapses that is the two edges that define the slit are in contact with one another except in the area in which guide catheter 228 enters and exits flexible track 216. The edges defining the slit are forced apart by extension member 298 in the region where the longitudinal axis 248 is coincident with the portion of rigid guide that begins the non-linear arcuate portion.

Referring to FIG. 1 the distal end of flexible track 216 is fed into the channel of rigid guide 218 through its proximal opening 276. Rigid guide 218 includes a linear portion beginning at proximal opening 276 and a non-linear portion defined by cover 268 and base 270. In one embodiment the non-linear portion is an arcuate portion having at least one point of inflection. Flexible track 216 is initially positioned within rigid guide 218 by feeding distal end 254 of flexible track 216 into proximal opening 276 of rigid guide 218 until the distal end 254 of flexible track 216 extends beyond collar 250 of rigid guide 218. The distal end 254 of flexible track 216 is operatively connected to member 258 of sheath clip 256. Sheath clip 258 is positioned within collar 250 such that member 266 is positioned within a corresponding mating groove in collar 250. Sheath clip 256 is positioned in a first load position with channel opening 276 of sheath clip 258 aligned with opening 278 of collar 250.

Flexible track 216 is rotated by a technician or operator within rigid guide 218 such that opening 274 faces in an upwardly direction. Stated another way opening 274 of flexible track 216 is secured to sheath clip 256 in a manner such that when she clip 256 is engaged with collar 250 opening 276 of sheath clip 256 is aligned with opening 278 of collar 250 which is also aligned with opening 274 of flexible track 216.

Referring to FIG. 10 flexible track 216 is secured to sheath clip 256 with a portion of flexible track 216 extending beyond collar 250 in the distal position. The extension of the distal end 254 of flexible track 216 allows for easy insertion of flexible track 216 to sheath clip 256. Since flexible track 216 is formed of a flexible material having a modulus of elasticity that is less than the modulus of elasticity of the rigid guide material, flexible track 216 moves along the curved non-lineal portion of channel defined by rigid guide 218. Note that the modulus of elasticity of flexible track 216 is below a value in which flexible track 216 will fracture or break by movement along the non-linear portion of rigid guide 218. In one embodiment flexible track 216 is formed of a polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE material. Sheath clip 256 along with the terminal end 254 of flexible track 216 is moved adjacent to collar 250. Sheath clip 256 along with flexible track 216 is rotated to such that the opening 276 of sheath clip 256 is alignment with opening 278 of collar 250 defining the guide catheter installation position. As discussed below in one embodiment a sheath clip 420 is configured to be received within cassette 222 in the proper install orientation.

Referring to FIG. 5 guide catheter 228 is positioned within opening 274 of flexible track 216 through opening 278 of collar 250 and through opening 276 of sheath clip 256. Referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 9 the distal end 280 of sheath clip 256 includes a collar 282 having an opening 284. Guide catheter 228 in the installation position extends into flexible track 216 through opening 274, through opening 278 of collar 250 and through openings 276, 284 of sheath clip 256. In this installation position guide catheter 228 maintains a straight and linear orientation along its longitudinal axis 248 from Y-connector holder 236 through the distal end of sheath clip 256.

Referring to FIG. 11 , rigid guide 218 includes an extension member 298 that extends into the channel defined by the outer walls of rigid guide 218. Extension member 298 is received into the inner channel of flexible track 216 through slit 286. Extension member 298 is positioned proximate the distal end 300 of the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218. Extension member 298 has a thickness that is equal to or greater than the opening defined by slit 286 to ensure that the edges of flexible track 216 that define the slit remains separated so that guide catheter 228 can extend into the channel portion of flexible track 216 through the slit. In one embodiment the thickness of extension member 298 is greater than the opening defined by the slit and the diameter of the guide catheter 228. In this manner the opening defined by the slit 286 is increased at and closely adjacent to the extension member allowing for insertion and removal a portion of guide catheter 228. In one embodiment the opening defined by the slit is less than the diameter of the guide catheter 228 which assists in maintaining the distal portion of the guide catheter within the channel of the flexible track 216 during operation of the robotic catheter system.

Referring to FIG. 6A, and FIG. 12 , sheath clip 256 is placed in an installation position with opening 276 in the upward direction. Stated another way opening 276 is formed by a channel in sheath clip 256 defining an opening that is accessed from the upward direction. This orientation allows guide catheter 228 to be positioned within the channel of sheath clip 256 and opening 274 of flexible track 216 in the same orientation that guide catheter is secured to cassette 222. In this orientation guide catheter 228 can be placed into the channel of flexible track 216 through openings 276 and 284 of sheath clip 256 and through opening 274 of flexible track 216.

Referring to FIG. 6B and FIG. 13 , in one embodiment sheath clip 256 is rotated about longitudinal axis 248 until opening 276 extends 90 degrees from the vertical orientation sown in FIG. 12 . In this manner guide catheter 228 is assisted in remaining within the channel of flexible track 216. As sheath clip 256 is rotated 90 degrees, extension member 298 acts to widen the opening defined by slit 286 immediately adjacent the longitudinal axis 248. In this manner guide catheter 228 can enter and exit flexible track 216 without interference from the edges of the flexible track that defines slit 286. In one embodiment described below a sheath clip 420 does not need to be rotated but simply pulled distally away from cassette 222.

In one embodiment sheath clip 256 is rotated in a first direction 90 degrees illustrated in FIG. 6B, while in another embodiment sheath clip 256 is rotated 90 degrees in a direction opposite to the direction. It is also contemplated that sheath clip 256 may be rotated less than or greater than 90 degrees. In one embodiment described below sheath clip 420 does not need to be rotated.

Referring to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 in one embodiment once sheath clip 256 has been rotated to the operation position shown in FIG. 13 , the sheath clip is pulled by a user away from cassette 222 in a direction along longitudinal axis 248 until the distal end 280 sheath clip 256 is proximate the patient. In one embodiment an introducer is secured to distal end 280 of sheath clip 256. The introducer is a device that is secured to a patient to positively position the introducer to the patient to allow insertion and removal of elongated medical devices such as the guide catheter, guide wire and or working catheter into the patient with minimal tissue damage to the patient. Once the operator has pulled the sheath clip and accompanying flexible track toward the patient such that the introducer is proximate the patient, the flexible track is locked in position by a locking clamp 310.

Locking clamp 310 secures flexible track 216 to base 214 such that a portion of flexible track 216 is in a fixed position relative to the patient bed and the patient to the extent the patient lies still on the patient bed. Referring to FIG. 18 , a linear drive mechanism 312 includes a linear slide that is robotically controlled by a user through a remote control station. Catheter drive mechanism drive 312 drives robotic mechanism 212 along longitudinal axis 248. Since rigid guide 218 is fixed relative to robotic mechanism 212, flexible track 216 moves relative to the rigid guide 218 as the robotic mechanism 212 moves along the longitudinal axis 248.

Referring to FIGS. 14, 15, 16 and 17 the operation and movement of flexible track 216 relative to rigid guide 218 will be described. Referring to FIG. 14 flexible track 216 is shown in the installation first position in which guide catheter 228 is positioned within sheath clip 256 and flexible track opening 274 as described above. Referring to FIG. 15 , once sheath clip 256 has been released from the cassette 222 as described above the sheath clip 256 and distal end of the flexible track are pulled by a user away from cassette 222 such that the distal end of the sheath clip 256 is proximate the entry point of the patient in which a percutaneous intervention will occur. As described below in further detail locking clamp 310 operatively clamps a portion of flexible track 216 that flexible track 216 fixed relative to base 214.

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15 the portion of flexible track 216 that is positioned within arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 is pulled out of the distal end of rigid guide 218 in a direction generally along longitudinal axis 248. Similarly a portion 322 of flexible track 216 that was external to and not located within the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 is pulled into the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 and depending on how far the terminal end of the flexible track is pulled toward the patient portion 322 of flexible track 216 will enter the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 and may extend therefrom. Stated another way flexible track 216 includes three general regions that change with the operation of the guide catheter system. First a proximal region that includes the flexible track portion from the proximal end 253 to the opening 324 of the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218. Flexible track 216 includes a second portion located between the proximal end 324 of the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 and the distal end 325 of the arcuate portion of rigid guide proximate collar 250. Flexible track includes a third region that extends from collar 250 of rigid guide 218 in a direction defined by a vector generally along longitudinal axis 248, where the vector has a beginning at Y-connector and extends in a direction toward collar 250.

The first region and second region of flexible track 216 as described above is offset from and not in line with longitudinal axis 248. The third portion of flexible track 216 is generally coaxial with longitudinal axis 248 as flexible track 216 exits collar 250 of rigid guide 218.

During one type of intervention procedure, guide catheter 228 is inserted into a patient's femoral artery through an introducer and positioned proximate the coronary ostium of a patient's heart. An operator may wish to relocate the distal end of the guide catheter robotically. Referring to FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 the control of the distal end of guide catheter 228 will be described. Referring to FIG. 16 guide catheter 228 has a distal portion which extends beyond the distal end of sheath clip 256 in order to extend beyond the terminal end of guide catheter 228 in a direction away from the terminal end of sheath clip. As noted above the distal end of guide catheter 228 may be placed proximate the ostium of a patient. The robotic control of the distal end of guide catheter 228 is accomplished by movement of robotic drive mechanism 212 relative to base 214 by linear drive 312. Guide catheter is located within the channel of the flexible track from cassette 222 until the sheath clip 256. Since flexible track 216 is secured relative to base 214 the second portion of flexible track 216 as described above will move from within the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 to a position offset from longitudinal axis 248. Similarly, a third portion of flexible track 216 that extended distally beyond collar 250 will be retracted and moved into the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 and in doing so is moved away from and offset from longitudinal axis 248. Referring to FIG. 5 , FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 guide catheter 228 maintains a continuous straight line along the longitudinal axis 248 from a position within the robotic mechanism through a distal end of the flexible track. Guide catheter 228 is free of any bend from within the robotic mechanism through the distal end of the flexible track. A portion of guide 218 is fixed relative to the robotic mechanism 212, as robotic mechanism 212 moves with the robotic mechanism as the robotic mechanism 212 is moved along the longitudinal axis.

If during a PCI procedure guide catheter begins to slip out of the ostium it is possible to extend the distal end of guide catheter 228 back into the patient's ostium by robotically moving the robotic drive 212 toward the patient. In doing so the distal end of guide catheter 228 is moved toward the patient reinserting or seating the distal end of the guide catheter into the patient's ostium as one example. As the robotic drive mechanism 212 is moved along longitudinal axis 248 flexible track 216 is moved relative to rigid guide 218. In actual operation a portion of flexible track 216 is fixed in space relative to base 214 at locking clamp 310. However, the portion of flexible track 216 that is located within the arcuate section of rigid guide 218 is moved toward and away from longitudinal axis 248 depending on the direction that the robotic drive mechanism 212 is moving. Guide catheter 228 moves into or out of the section of the flexible track 216 that is moving in and out of the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218. In this manner the portion of the guide catheter 228 between cassette 222 and the sheath clip is always located within the channel of flexible track 216. In this manner guide catheter 228 may be manipulated within flexible track 216 without buckling or causing other non-desirable movement during a percutaneous intervention procedure.

Referring to FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 the movement of flexible track 216 with respect to rigid guide 218 will be described as it relates to single section A on flexible track 216. In one example section A on flexible track 216 is located distal collar 250 of rigid guide 218. When an operator determines to insert guide catheter 228 further into or toward a patient in a direction away from collar 250 an input device is manipulated by the user at a remote control station that drives robotic drive 212 distally along longitudinal axis 248 by activating linear drive 312. The proximal end of guide catheter 228 is longitudinally fixed in cassette 222 by clamp 310 so that as the robotic drive 312 including cassette 222 is moved relative to base 214 by linear drive 312, in a direction toward the patient guide catheter 228 moves distally along longitudinal axis 248. As a result the distal end of guide catheter 228 moves toward and/or into the patient.

As the robotic drive mechanism is moved along longitudinal axis 248 section A of flexible track 216 moves into rigid guide 218 through collar 250 and is moved along the arcuate portion of rigid guide 218 until section A of the flexible track 216 is adjacent the proximate opening of rigid guide 218. In this manner distal end of flexible track remains in a constant position but section A of flexible track 216 is moved out of or offset to the longitudinal axis 248. As section A moves from a point proximate the collar 250 into the arcuate channel defined by the rigid guide 218 the guide catheter 228 enters the channel or hollow lumen of the flexible track 216 through the slit adjacent in the engagement zone proximal to collar 250. In this manner flexible track 216 provides continual support and guidance for the guide catheter 228 between the collar 250 and patient as the distal end of guide catheter 228 is moved toward and away from the patient.

Similarly, if the operator desires to retract the distal end of the guide catheter 228 from within the patient, the user provides a command to the linear drive through the remote control station to move robotic drive mechanism 212 in a direction away from the patient. In this way section A of the flexible track 216 would enter the proximal end of the arcuate portion of the rigid guide and be guided within the channel of the rigid guide 218 until section A exits the distal end of the rigid guide 218. The guide catheter 228 would enter the slit at section A or stated another way a portion of the guide catheter 228 would enter the flexible track 216 via the portion of the slit that is located within the concentric circle taken at section A of the flexible track. Note that although sections of flexible track are positioned in different regions of the rigid guide as the robotic mechanism in moved toward and away from the patient the proximal end and the distal end of the flexible track remain in a fixed location as the robotic mechanism is moved along the longitudinal axis.

Referring to FIGS. 19-26 locking clamp 310 includes a base portion 320 operatively connected to base 214 and a clamp portion 322 that is coupled to base portion 320 via an engagement mechanism 324. Engagement mechanism 324 includes a pair of clasps 370, 371 on base portion 320 that engage a portion 357 via two indentations or grooves 360 and 362 on clamp portion 322. Clamp portion 322 includes a body 326 having a rigid guide connector 328 that is pivotally received in an opening in the rigid guide. Connector 328 includes a cylindrical member 356 that is received within the opening in rigid guide 218. Referring to FIG. 21 Clamp portion 322 is in a raised position that can be used to ship the cassette separately from robotic drive base 220 without clamp portion 322 extending outwardly or rearwardly from cassette 222. Clamp portion 322 pivots about the longitudinal axis of rigid guide 218 proximate the opening in rigid guide 218 to an outwardly orientation to be coupled to base portion 320.

Referring to FIG. 24 , cylindrical member 356 defines a channel extending therethrough through which flexible track 216 extends. Extending inwardly into the channel from the cylindrical member 356 is a flat support 332. An inner cylindrical guide member 330 extends from flat support 332 such that cylindrical guide member is coaxial with the cylindrical member 356. Flexible track 216 is threaded through a proximal opening in rigid guide 218 and is passed over inner cylindrical guide member 330 such that the slit in flexible track 216 passes over flat support 332. In this manner flexible track 216 is positioned between inner cylindrical guide member 330 and cylindrical member 356. Referring to FIG. 26A cylindrical member 356 includes a longitudinal opening through which a cam member 338 extends from body 326 toward the region defined between the inner cylindrical guide member 330 and the cylindrical member 356. As described below cam member 338 acts to lock flexible track 216 against inner cylindrical guide member 330.

Cam lock portion 322 includes a handle member 334 having a handle portion 354 and bearing surface 358 and a cam portion 355. Handle member 334 includes a keyed post 352 that is connected to a bottom key receptacle 344 through keyed opening 350. A fastener secures handle 334 to bottom key receptacle 344. Body 326 includes an opening 336 through which bearing 358 and cam 355 extend. Cam plate 338 includes an aperture 342 having an inner surface. Cam plate 338 includes a locking surface 340. In operation cam plate 342 is positioned within a slot in body 326 such that opening 342 is aligned with opening 336.

Referring to FIGS. 25A, 26A in the unlocked position lock surface 340 does not abut flexible track 216. Referring to FIGS. 25B and 26B bearing member 358 cooperates with the wall of opening 336 to centrally locate handle 334 within opening 336. Cam member 355 is positioned within opening 342 of cam plate 338 such that when handle 334 is rotated locking surface 340 is moved toward and away from rigid guide 218 to operatively y lock and unlock flexible track 216 relative to lock 310 and thereby to base 214.

Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30 Y-connector 233 is a hemostasis valve 402 that includes a valve body with a first leg having a proximal port, a distal port and a lumen extending between the proximal port and the distal port. At least one valve is located in the lumen adjacent the proximal port to permit an interventional device to be passed therethrough. The valve body includes a second leg extending at an angle relative to the first leg and in fluid communication with the first leg. A rotating male luer lock connector is rotatably connected to the valve body proximate the distal port to secure proximal end of guide catheter 228 thereto.

In one embodiment hemostasis valve 402 includes a bleedback valve used to reduce the blood that may be lost during an interventional procedure. The bleedback valve acts to allow an elongated device such as a guide wire to extend therethrough but minimizes blood loss through the valve. In one embodiment hemostasis valve 402 includes a Tuohy-Borst adapter that allows for the adjustment of the size of the opening in proximal end. Rotation of an engagement member about the valve's longitudinal axis acts to increase or decrease the diameter of the opening.

In one embodiment the bleedback valve is opened from a closed position to a fully opened position with a single motion or translation of an engagement member. In one example an engagement member is push or pulled along the longitudinal axis of the elongated medical device to fully open or fully close the valve. Some hemostasis valve devices include both type of controls, a rotational engagement member that opens and closes the tuohy borst valve by rotation of the engagement member about the longitudinal axis of the engagement member and a push pull control in which the engagement member is moved along the longitudinal axis to open and close the bleedback valve. Other type of control mechanisms are also known such as using a lever or ratchet to open and close the valve.

Referring to FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 hemostasis valve 402 includes an engagement member 416 that provides operation of the Tuohy-Borst valve by rotation of engagement member 416 and a push pull adjustment of the bleedback valve between a fully open and closed position by moving the engagement member 416 along the longitudinal axis of the hemostasis valve.

Control of the Tuohy-Borst and bleed back valves is accomplished robotically from a remote control station 14 by a first drive member 406 operatively connected to a first driven member 404 to rotate engagement member about the longitudinal axis. In one embodiment first drive member is a drive gear and the driven member 404 is a beveled gear secured to engagement member 416 and operatively connected to a drive gear. A second drive member 412 is operatively connected to the engagement member to translate the engagement member 416 along the longitudinal axis of the hemostasis valve. In one embodiment, second drive member is a lever that is robotically controlled via a motor that is controlled by the remote control station 14. Lever 412 operatively engages a collar slot 414 in the outer periphery of engagement member 16 such that movement of the lever 412 results in the translation of the engagement member 416 which as discussed above opens the bleedback valve between the closed and open positions.

In one embodiment a user may operate the first drive member 412 and the second drive member 412 to open and close the bleedback and Tuohy-Borst valves by providing instructions through a user input to rotate and/or translate the engagement member 416 about and/or along the longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, first drive member 412 and the second drive member 412 are automatically operated by a remote robotic control station 14 in response to a sensor that senses the blood flow and/or fictional forces required to move an elongated medical device either through the hemostasis valve and or a patients' vasculature. When the system detects that the force required to robotically rotate and or translate the elongated medical device the system reaches some predetermined value the processor would provide instructions to incrementally open and or close the opening in one or both of the valves. Monitoring of a patient's blood pressure and or whether blood is being lost through the valve would be used as factors in an algorithm to determine the appropriate adjustment to the opening in the valves.

Referring to FIG. 27 , robotic catheter system 210 operates proximate a patient bedside system 12 adjacent a patient bed 22. A remote work station 14 includes a controller 16, a user interface 18 and a display 20. An imaging system 24 may be any medical imaging system that may be used in conjunction with a catheter based medical procedure (e.g., non-digital x-ray, digital x-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, etc.). In one embodiment, imaging system 24 is a digital x-ray imaging device that is in communication with workstation 14. Imaging system 24 is configured to take x-ray images of the appropriate area of patient during a particular procedure. For example, imaging system 24 may be configured to take one or more x-ray images of the heart to diagnose a heart condition. Imaging system 24 may also be configured to take one or more x-ray images during a catheter based medical procedure (e.g., real-time images) to assist the user of workstation 14 to properly position a guide wire, guide catheter, and a working catheter such as a stent during a procedure. The image or images may be displayed on display 20 to allow the user to accurately position a distal tip of a guide wire or working catheter into proper position in a patient's vasculature.

Referring to FIG. 28 flexible track 216 extends along the longitudinal axis 248 toward the patient. However during a procedure the patient may move resulting in the sheath clip pulling away or toward the patient. In one embodiment flexible track 216 assumes an arc shape between the distal end of cassette 222 and the patient. Guide catheter 228 positioned within the cavity defined by flexible track 216 assumes the same arc shape as flexible track 216. If a patient moves during a procedure the away from cassette 222 the arc 390 will flatten. Similarly, if the patient moves during the procedure toward the cassette 222 the arc 390 will be more pronounced. In both circumstances flexible track 216 prevents guide catheter 228 from buckling during a PCI procedure.

Referring to FIG. 30 in one embodiment a sheath clip 420 is positively received within a distal end of cassette 222. The distal end of flexible track 216 is secured to a sheath clip 410 adjacent radially extending handle portion 428, sheath clip 420 includes a groove 430 having an opening 432. The distal end of flexible track 216 is located within the bottom of groove 430. In the install position shown in FIG. 31 the longitudinal axis of sheath clip 420 is co-axial with longitudinal axis 248 of robotic mechanism 212. Top position the sheath clip 420 and flexible track 216 in an operation position a user pulls handle portion 428 and extends sheath clip 420 and attached flexible track 216 in a direction away from the robotic mechanism 212 and toward a patient. In one embodiment there is no need to rotate guide sheath 420 relative to cassette 222. A user simply pulls sheath clip 420 distally in a direction away from robotic mechanism 212.

Referring to FIG. 32 and FIG. 33 , sheath clip 420 includes an introducer sheath connector 424 that releasably engages an introducer sheath 422. Introducer sheath connector includes at least a portion that rotatably coupled to sheath clip 420 proximate handle portion 428. Introducer sheath connector 424 includes an arm 436 that releasably engages an outer surface of introducer 422 to operatively couple the introducer sheath to sheath clip 420. Arm 436 in the engaged position illustrated in FIG. 33 prevents introducer sheath 422 from moving from sheath clip 420 along the longitudinal axis toward or away from the patient. A tube extending from introducer sheath 422 is captured between sheath clip 420 and arm 436.

While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A robotic catheter system comprising; a base; a robotic mechanism having a longitudinal axis and being movable relative to the base along the longitudinal axis; a flexible track releasably secured to the base and including an outer surface having a longitudinal opening slit extending therethrough to an inner channel; a guide having a portion fixed relative to the robotic mechanism; an elongated medical device extending along the longitudinal axis; and a portion of the flexible track moves along a non-linear path when the robotic mechanism moves relative to the base; the elongated medical device entering the inner channel of the flexible track as the portion of the flexible track moves relative to the base.
 2. The robotic catheter system of claim 1, wherein the elongated medical device maintains a straight orientation along the longitudinal axis from a position within the robotic mechanism through a distal end of the flexible track.
 3. The robotic catheter system of claim 2, wherein the portion of the flexible track is co-linear with the elongated medical device when the robotic mechanism is a first distance from the distal end of the flexible track and is not co-linear with the elongated medical device the flexible track is at a second distance from the distal end of the flexible track where the first distance is greater than the second distance.
 4. The robotic catheter system of claim 2, wherein the elongated medical device is a catheter, and the catheter is in a continuous straight line along the longitudinal axis from a hemostasis valve in the robotic mechanism to the distal end of the flexible track.
 5. The robotic catheter system of claim 2, wherein a distal end of the flexible track is located outside of a patient.
 6. The robotic catheter system of claim 5, wherein a proximal end of the flexible track and the distal end of the flexible track are in a fixed position as the robotic mechanism moves relative to the base.
 7. The robotic catheter system of claim 6, further including a clip operatively connected to the distal end of the flexible track, the clip being fixed relative to the patient.
 8. The robotic catheter system of claim 7, wherein the clip is removably coupled to an introducer sheath extending into a vasculature of the patient.
 9. The robotic catheter system of claim 7, wherein the clip includes an introducer sheath connector releasably engaging an introducer sheath.
 10. The robotic catheter system of claim 1, wherein the elongated medical device is a catheter, the catheter being in a continuous straight line when the catheter is first inserted through the longitudinal opening slit and through a distal end of the flexible track, the guide catheter being bend free and maintaining a continuous straight line orientation from within the robotic mechanism through the distal end of the flexible track.
 11. The robotic catheter system of claim 10, wherein the distal end of the flexible track is adjacent a distal end of the robotic mechanism when the catheter is first inserted through the longitudinal opening slit and the distal end of the flexible track is moved further away from distal end of the robotic mechanism prior to the robotic mechanism moving relative to the base.
 12. The robotic catheter system of claim 1, further including a clamp releasably securing a proximal portion of the flexible track to the base, the clamp including a clamp member extending into a channel of the guide through the longitudinal opening slit.
 13. The robotic catheter system of claim 12, further including an engagement member that releasably presses against an outer surface of the flexible track fixing an inner surface of the flexible track against the clamp member within the channel of the flexible track fixing the proximal portion of the flexible track relative to the base.
 14. The robotic catheter system of claim 1, wherein the longitudinal opening slit extends an entire length of the flexible track.
 15. The robotic catheter system of claim 1, wherein the portion of the guide fixed relative to the robotic mechanism moves with the robotic mechanism as the robotic mechanism 212 is moved along the longitudinal axis.
 16. A method of supporting an elongated medical device comprising; providing a robotic mechanism having a longitudinal axis; providing a flexible track having a proximal portion, a distal end, and an intermediate portion therebetween, the flexible track including an outer surface having a longitudinal opening slit extending therethrough to a channel; providing a guide having a portion fixed relative to the robotic mechanism; positioning an elongated medical device along the longitudinal axis within the channel of the flexible track; translating the robotic mechanism along the longitudinal axis relative to a base toward a patient and; moving the intermediate portion of the flexible track along the guide in a non-linear path as the robotic mechanism moves relative to the base; and removing a portion of the elongated medical device from the channel through the longitudinal opening slit in the intermediate portion as the intermediate portion moves along the non-linear path.
 17. The method of claim 16, further including fixing a proximal portion and the distal end of the flexible track relative to the base prior to translating the robotic mechanism.
 18. The method of claim 16, further including moving the intermediate portion of the flexible track from a position co-linear with a straight line defined by the elongated medical device within the robotic mechanism through the distal end of the flexible track to a position offset from the straight line as the robotic mechanism moves relative to the base toward the patient.
 19. The method of claim 16, further including moving the intermediate portion of the flexible track from a position offset from a straight line defined by the elongated medical device within the robotic mechanism through the distal end of the flexible track to a position co-linear with the straight line as the robotic mechanism moves relative to the base away from a patient.
 20. The method of claim 16, further including providing a clip on the distal end of the flexible track and coupling the clip to an introducer connected to the patient. 